Biodiversity is about animals, plants, microbes, the environment and us - human beings. It is about the biotic and abiotic components of the earth. As long as all these components coexist in harmony, the delicate balance, which ultimately makes the earth a liveable planet, would be maintained. The importance of biodiversity can be assessed based on what it provides (food, fuel, medicine, shelter etc.) for our survival. Any perturbation in the balance would affect one, some or all of the biotic components thus ultimately compromising our own survival. Biodiversity is therefore important and needs to be conserved.

With overexploitation of biodiversity it is pertinent to create an economic stake in conservation and in this context rights of the primary conservers for recognition and reward assume importance. The pathway to an era of biohappiness is rooted in the principles of ethics and equity in benefit sharing.

India’s wealth of biodiversity is increasingly under threat with the rampant destruction of forests. Without doubt, the consequences of this are far reaching. If governments were to choose between humans and biodiversity, it would but obviously be the former. We are aware that with rising population pressures, the destruction of forests cannot be stopped in totality, but it can most certainly be slowed down.
Destruction of forest area has resulted in fragmentation of wildlife habitats. Survival...

Mangroves have traditionally been part of the coastal ecosystem, acting as a natural barrier against tidal waves. Studies have now established that mangroves did indeed play a crucial role in minimising damage during the December 2004 tsunami. Certainly the benefits of mangroves are manifold and they must be nurtured and conserved.

Plants have varying capacity to absorb water for sustenance. While a large tree may absorb a huge amount, others may store water for use during scarcity. A judiciously planned layout that accredits the physiological background of a plant is a must before using it for ground water reclamation.

Nature is being redefined as a capitalist commodity to be traded and speculated on in the international market. The latest thinking is pushing for global enclosures of local commons that will lead to profound transformations of traditional and cultural values.

Amherstia is a rare tree of great grandeur bedecked with beautiful flowers and drooping leaves, unfortunately found sparsely in India. Highly endangered, this species today seeks proper care and conservation for its survival in this struggle bound earth.

Once seen in large numbers across the State, the vultures of Chhattisgarh are experiencing a steep decline for any bird species in India. A handful of sightings are the only proof that the birds still survive in isolated pockets of the State.

Biodiversity, a complex topic covering aspects of biological variation, includes a range of living beings, the relationship among them and with the physical environment; and the sum total of their genetic make up. It encompasses species, ecosystems, and landscape diversity. Biodiversity changes through selective adjustments, from small biological variations, genetic mutations to ecosystem changes and results in novel behaviour among species, and societies.